A Single Mom's Letter To Her Fatherless Son: 'I Did Not Raise You Alone'

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Dearest Asher,

I am writing this as I watch you sleep and I can't help but notice what seems to be a void beside us. In the usual family with one child, there would be three, but for us it's just you and me.

Still I want you to know that regardless the number, a family simply means being with people who love and support you no matter what.

My journey as your only parent was never easy. I struggled from the day I told your biological father about you, and I stumble once in a while even until now, but I am proud to tell you that for once I never felt that I was doing it alone.

I did not raise you alone. I want you to remember that we were surrounded by our loved ones, a village of parents and a community of allies who made sure I feel loved, safe and celebrated.

I want you to remember all the people who contributed on guiding me when I didn't know what to do or when I have questions to ask.

I want you to remember that even though some of these people we do not know personally, they were essential to see to it that you grow up happily.

I want you to remember your mother had a safe space and I hope you find yours too when you grow up.

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I am sorry for failing to ensure you living with a dad, but that doesn't mean you were neglected. Later on in life you will realize you have been taken care of by your lolo, titos and kuyas who acted as your father and even loved you as their own.

A lot of people contributed for you to be well and healthy, to feel wanted and admired and most importantly, for you to be happy.

I know it sounds cliché but we won't be where we are now if it weren't for them. I hope one day you will be able to understand the choices I made for us.

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My son, we are far from perfect and we might never be the perfect family, moreover, I am not sure if or when we will be "complete" but what I am sure of is that you will always have me, your own family, and the family I met through Smart Parenting.

I love you.

Your Naynay

Genina Domingo is part of Smart Parenting Mom Squad and a finalist of the My Smart Parenting Story contest in 2021. Read her story here.